Rv Awning Attachment Basics: A Beginner's Guide

how do simple rv camper awnings attach

Installing an awning on your RV is a great way to increase your usable space and provide shelter from the elements. The process can be daunting, but with careful planning and the right tools, it is achievable. The first step is to choose the right awning for your RV, ensuring it is the correct size and type for your needs. You can then gather the necessary tools and follow a step-by-step guide to install the awning. This typically involves measuring and marking the location, mounting the awning rails, attaching the roller to the mounting brackets, installing the lower brackets, and fully extending the awning. With careful planning and execution, you can enjoy the benefits of an RV awning and enhance your camping experience.

Characteristics Values
Awning type Roll-out, fixed, portable, tent-like, van-mounted, manual, automatic
Awning size Dependent on RV size
Awning kit contents RV awning fabric, arms, legs, brackets, mounting hardware, instructions
Additional tools Mini needle nose pliers, cordless impact driver, self-drilling tek screw assortment, butyl seal tape, pencils, drill bits, socket set

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Choosing the right awning

There are several factors to consider when choosing an awning for your RV. Here are some key points to help you make an informed decision:

Types of Awnings

RV awnings come in various types, including:

  • Fixed Awnings: These are permanently built into the RV's roof and windows, providing constant shade and protection. However, they are prone to damage and can fall off easily, making them a hazard while driving.
  • Slide-Out Awnings: Stored under the RV roof, these awnings can be easily slid out manually or electrically. They are typically made of canvas, lightweight, and easy to manoeuvre.
  • Patio Awnings: Also known as sheltered awnings, these are larger and provide more comprehensive coverage. They can be fully adjusted for length, height, and size, and some even act as a sunroom outside your RV.
  • Automatic Awnings: Operated with a simple button push, these awnings are convenient but require professional installation and can be costly to repair.
  • Roller Awnings: Mounted on rollers for easy opening and closing, these awnings can be pulled out manually or automatically. They have more moving parts, requiring more maintenance.

Materials

Awnings are typically made from acrylic or vinyl:

  • Acrylic: Acrylic awnings offer good air circulation and breathability, and they can handle various weather conditions. However, they are not waterproof and can get overstretched, leading to "whipping" in the wind.
  • Vinyl: Vinyl awnings are scratch- and fade-resistant, protecting against road grime, pollution, and UV rays. On the downside, they are prone to mildew and mould and attract dirt and dust.

Factors to Consider

When choosing an awning, consider the following:

  • Size: Ensure the awning fits your RV properly. Larger RVs may require custom-built awnings, while smaller campers may only accommodate manual awnings.
  • Purpose: Determine your specific needs. Do you want shade, rain protection, or an outdoor sunroom? Do you need an awning that works while driving?
  • Ease of Installation and Use: Automatic awnings require professional installation and have a learning curve for use. Manual awnings are generally easier to use but may have a slight learning curve.
  • Budget: Consider your budget. Automatic awnings are typically the most expensive, while manual awnings are more economical. Vinyl awnings are usually cheaper than metal but may not withstand extreme weather.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are crucial to ensure the longevity of your awning:

  • Regularly clean your awning to remove dirt, debris, and mildew before storing.
  • Inspect the awning for tears, loose fittings, and other damage, and repair as needed.
  • Properly store and retract the awning during travel to avoid accidental damage.

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Manual vs automatic awnings

Manual awnings are typically sturdier than powered awnings and are more economical. They also don't require a power source to open or close them, making them more reliable. However, they are not as convenient and easy to open as powered awnings.

Powered awnings, on the other hand, offer the convenience of being able to extend or retract with the push of a button. Some even have automatic features, such as retracting when high winds are detected. They are generally less sturdy in strong winds and are more expensive. Installation can also be more complex, especially for hardwired models.

Both manual and powered awnings have their pros and cons, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and budget.

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Tools and parts needed

The tools and parts you will need to install an RV awning will depend on the type of awning you choose. Awnings can be manual or automatic, and they can be purchased as a kit or as separate parts.

If you purchase an RV awning kit, it will typically include the awning fabric, arms, legs, brackets, mounting hardware, and instructions. You will still need to supply your own tools, however.

If you purchase the parts separately, you will need the following:

  • Roller and fabric kit
  • Manual or power arms
  • Awning rail extrusion
  • Idler head (for manual awnings only)
  • Pull strap (for manual, pull-style awnings only)

In addition, you will need the following tools:

  • Ladder (if mounting above head height)
  • Pencil and long ruler/tape measure (for side-mounted awnings)
  • Painter's tape (for side-mounted awnings)
  • File (for side-mounted awnings)
  • Electric drill & metal drill bits (for side-mounted awnings)
  • Heat gun (for roof-mounted awnings)
  • Butyl tape/sealant (for roof-mounted awnings)
  • Self-tapping screws
  • Ratchet set
  • Screwdriver
  • Silicone lubricant
  • Vice grips

It is also important to note that you should always have one or two helpers during the installation process, as RV awnings are heavy and can be dangerous if they fall.

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Installing the awning

The first step in installing an RV awning is to choose an awning that fits your RV. Measure the height of your RV by measuring from the ground to the top railing. Then, measure the width by measuring from one side of the awning to the other. Start your measurements on the far side of the door so that the awning covers the door but also extends past it.

Next, you need to decide whether you want a manual or automatic awning. Automatic awnings are controlled electronically with the push of a button, whereas manual awnings are extended and retracted by hand.

Once you have chosen your awning, gather the necessary tools and materials. These include a ladder, pencil, ruler or tape measure, painter's tape, a file, an electric drill with metal drill bits, a heat gun, mastic/butyl tape, mounting brackets, and screws.

Now, you are ready to begin the installation process:

  • Choose the location for your awning, ensuring it is flat and level, and won't interfere with any doors.
  • Position the mounting brackets and mark the locations for drilling.
  • Cover the drill locations with painter's tape to protect the paintwork.
  • Drill the holes using a metal drill bit.
  • File down any burrs or rough edges, and paint the edges with anti-rust paint.
  • Apply sealant to the back of the mounting brackets.
  • Install the mounting brackets and the awning onto the brackets.
  • Fully extend the awning and confirm that it doesn't obstruct any doors.
  • If you are installing a motorized awning, wire the motor and control panel.
  • If you are installing a rain guard, do so now.
  • Enjoy your new awning!

Tips and Tricks

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.
  • Have one or two helpers during the installation process, as RV awnings are heavy.
  • Be careful of sharp edges to avoid injury.
  • Regularly check the tension of your awning to ensure it is not too loose or tight.
  • Use tie-down stakes to secure the awning when it is fully extended to protect against strong winds.
  • Coat your awning fabric with a sun protectant to shield it from direct sunlight.

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Finishing touches

Now that you have your RV awning installed, there are a few final steps to ensure it is protected and maintained. Firstly, check the tension on your awning regularly to ensure it is not too loose or overextended. This will help prevent damage from strong winds. Secondly, use tie-down stakes to secure the awning to the ground when it is fully extended, providing additional protection against strong winds. Finally, coat your awning fabric with a sun protectant to shield it from direct sunlight and UV damage.

It is also important to clean and maintain your awning to keep it in good condition. Before retracting your awning, ensure that it is completely dry to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. You can also use a mildew blocker spray to prevent this. To clean your awning, start by opening it fully and gently brushing away any dry debris. Then, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge with a mild cleaning solution (dish soap and warm water or a diluted bleach solution) to gently scrub both sides of the awning. Rinse the awning thoroughly with a hose to remove any residue.

Additionally, inspect your awning regularly for any tears or holes. If you find any damage, you can use an awning repair kit to fix it. These kits typically include tape or a patch to cover the affected area. Make sure to clean the area around the tear or hole before applying the repair solution.

By following these finishing steps and maintaining your RV awning, you can ensure that it remains in good condition and provides you with shade and protection from the elements for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

You should take measurements of your RV to ensure that the awning is not too big or too small. Measure from the ground to the top railing for height, and from one side of the awning to the other for width. You should also ensure that the awning does not interfere with other parts of your camper, such as storage compartments or doors.

There are four main awning styles: pull-style, hand-crank, hardwired, and battery-powered. Pull-style awnings are opened by pulling a strap, while hand-crank awnings are opened by rotating a rod. Hardwired awnings are electronically controlled and must be wired to the RV, while battery-powered awnings are also electronically controlled but do not require hardwiring.

It is recommended to purchase an RV awning kit, which includes the awning fabric, arms, legs, brackets, mounting hardware, and instructions. Additionally, you will need tools such as a drill, screwdriver, and self-tapping screws.

First, choose the right location and take measurements. Mark the start and end points of the awning rail, which will house the awning fabric. Next, mount the awning rail to the top edge of the RV, using butyl tape for waterproofing. Attach the RV awning roller to the mounting brackets and awning arms. Install the lower brackets and insert the bottom part of each awning arm. Fully extend the awning and adjust the tension as needed. Finish by attaching the various parts of the awning rail to the RV exterior, using self-tapping screws and butyl tape or silicone spray to prevent leaks.

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